MPA announces new award to honour former chair Tony Pool

The Music Publishers Association has announced a new award in the name of its late former chair, Tony Pool. The publishing executive, who spent much of his career at Boosey & Hawkes and became head of business affairs, died in 2016.

Speaking at the MPA’s Christmas lunch, chair Jackie Alway announced the launch of the accolade which ‘‘aims to sing the praises of our un-sung back office heroes’’.

The award will honour individuals working in the “engine room” areas of royalties, copyright, business affairs, finance, HR and IT for publishers, especially those who display an outstanding work ethic and dedication to the music publishing industry.

Judged by a panel of industry representatives who will be nominated by the MPA’s education and eraining group, the winner will be announced at the MPA Christmas Lunch each year.

Alway said: “I want to take this opportunity to shine a light on these backroom heroes. The people behind the scenes who allow the stars to shine.

“It was certainly true of Tony Pool. For those of you who didn’t know him, Tony was a skilled lawyer who, as well as working with Boosey & Hawkes for practically his entire career, also served our industry as chair and deputy chair of the MPA - promoting the importance of our business on a British and European stage.

"Sadly, Tony passed away last year. But I am delighted to announce the launch of an award in his honour and name, which aims to sing the praises of those who do such excellent work in the engine room of our business.”

Alway stressed that the MPA would continue to focus on education and training, and added: “Whether that’s our newly-revamped induction course that’s provided a gateway to music publishing for thousands of young people; our presence at careers events all around the UK; our soon-to-be launched advanced licensing course; our professional development course run jointly with the Music Managers Forum; and all our other regular specialist expert seminars.”

And she highlighted: “According to UK Music statistics, music publishing generates more than a quarter of the entire industry’s £2.5 billion in export revenues. I think that’s something we can all celebrate.”